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Europeans through, north Americans out
The final of the womens world cup is set and it's the two European nations that met in the European final, Germany and Sweden.
Germany had to face the defending champions and hosts, USA in what was a match for the ages on paper and even better when played out, despite the 3-0 scoreline in favour of the Germans.
Hailed as one of the best matches played in womens football, the physical encounter had an early goal. Kerstin Garefrekes headed in on 15 minutes for Germany. This shocked the USA into action and from here both sides went back and forth in a frenzy to make it to the final.
Half time it was 1-0 still to the Germans. Another 45 minutes passed and it was still 1-0. It would be the injury time that broke the Americans back in this case when Maren Meinert slotted home in the 91st minute of play. That was soon followed by a goal from undisputed tornament goal scoring leader, Birgit Prinz (93rd minute). From there it was a simple case of waiting for the full time whistle to go as the hosts crashed out of USA 2003.
Sweden had a simerly tough encounter against a side not expected to reach such a developed stage of the tornament.
Canada found themselves defending alot early, making the attack into Sweden's half when they coulD> Despite setting the pace and holding possession, Sweden just couldn't score. The half time score remained 0-0, Canada taking heart from their defence.
The second half was a different story though as Canada shocked Sweden when they took the lead. On 65 minutes Canadian sensation Kara Lang struck home a sweet free kick to score. Sweden started to regret missed opportunities until they pulled it back on 79 minutes with a quick re-start of play, resulting in a Malin Moström goal. The equiliser got Sweden fired up and seven minutes later it was Josefine Öqvist making sure the ball settled in the back of the net. Victoria Svensson setting up both goals for the Swedes.
So after a night of drama it's Europe's top two, Germany and Sweden fighting for World Cup glory while CONCACAF's top two battle for third place. Not what either team were looking for but still a worthy performance by all concerned.
7 October, 2003 |
